- The Emblem of the Rotary Club of Ku-ring-gai Inc.
It is appropriate that the emblem of the Rotary Club of Ku-ring-gai should be the “
KOONGGA “, which is a message stick used by the Australian Aborigines. The pattern of markings burnt into the surface of a “Koongga” is not a form of writing. The bearer delivers the message orally and the “Koongga” is a guarantee that he is telling the truth. Bearers of message sticks sometimes travelled long distances, often through the territories of hostile tribes. The messages they delivered were to arrange a corroboree, a trade meeting, exchange of information and other tribal matters.
The colours and symbols on a “Koongga” vary with each tribe. The ones chosen by the Rotary Club of Ku-ring-gai and incorporated into our banner are representative of the tribes that lived in the Ku-ring-gai area many years ago.
Additionally, the
Banner of the Rotary Club of Ku-ring-gai bids to all who receive it, a friendly “Karitandi “, a friendly welcome. Indeed, the Club’s “Koongga” and “Karltandi” banner reflect in their own unique way, the ideal of “Rotarians united in service, dedicated in Peace”.
